Reducing the administrative burden and SME financing

Excessive red tape is a drag on the economy. One of the advantages Switzerland enjoys as a business location is that its administration is comparatively streamlined. But of course we cannot rest on our laurels. SMEs in Switzerland would like things to be even simpler, and other countries are continually improving the conditions they offer to firms.

Financing is an important element for an enterprise's success. The federal government and the cantons are constantly improving the framework and provide SMEs with funding on a complementary basis.

The SME Forum, founded by the Federal Council in 1998, is an extra-parliamentary commission of experts. The forum is committed to drawing the federal administration's attention to the needs of small and medium enterprises.

The federal government assists efficient and viable SMEs in obtaining bank credits by funding loan guarantee cooperatives.

As part of the regional policy, the Swiss Confederation supports efforts to strengthen the competitiveness of individual regions and increase their added value.